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Alpha Cove #3
The Pilot
Sparks fly when a former bully moves in with her former victim in New York Times bestselling author Susan Stoker’s tantalizing third foray into Alpha Cove, a spicy military romance steeped in emotion.
Ex-fighter pilot Lincoln “Linc” Young is a survivor, masking his PTSD and nightmares behind a calm exterior. When his father’s death brings him back to Maine to help his mom, he never expects to cross paths with his former high school tormentor. But the woman who once made his life hell now stirs completely different emotions in Linc, and when he finds Harper in need, he impulsively offers her and her young son a place to stay.
Harper Bates thought she’d hit rock bottom after returning to her childhood home in Rockville, Maine. Then her father begins judging her every move—and worse, her son Kash, when they discover he’s being bullied at school. The last person she expects help from is Linc, the boy Harper herself had bullied years ago. Now a commanding presence who makes her and Kash feel safe, Linc inspires both a growing attraction…and lingering shame over her past actions.
Temporary cohabitation quickly turns into something more as Harper and Linc reveal intimate secrets that put them both on a path to healing. But they’re unaware someone else has a secret. And it’s about to impact the one person the couple can’t live without—Kash.
Ex-fighter pilot Lincoln “Linc” Young is a survivor, masking his PTSD and nightmares behind a calm exterior. When his father’s death brings him back to Maine to help his mom, he never expects to cross paths with his former high school tormentor. But the woman who once made his life hell now stirs completely different emotions in Linc, and when he finds Harper in need, he impulsively offers her and her young son a place to stay.
Harper Bates thought she’d hit rock bottom after returning to her childhood home in Rockville, Maine. Then her father begins judging her every move—and worse, her son Kash, when they discover he’s being bullied at school. The last person she expects help from is Linc, the boy Harper herself had bullied years ago. Now a commanding presence who makes her and Kash feel safe, Linc inspires both a growing attraction…and lingering shame over her past actions.
Temporary cohabitation quickly turns into something more as Harper and Linc reveal intimate secrets that put them both on a path to healing. But they’re unaware someone else has a secret. And it’s about to impact the one person the couple can’t live without—Kash.
328 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 4, 2026
About the author
Susan Stoker
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New York Times, USA Today, and Wall Street Journal Bestselling Author, Susan Stoker has a heart as big as the state of Tennessee where she lives, but this all American girl has also spent the last fourteen years living in Missouri, California, Colorado, Indiana, and Tennessee. She's married to a retired Army man who now gets to follow her around the country.
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For all upcoming books click here: http://www.stokeraces.com/coming-soon...
http://www.stokeraces.com/contact-1.html
New York Times, USA Today, and Wall Street Journal Bestselling Author, Susan Stoker has a heart as big as the state of Tennessee where she lives, but this all American girl has also spent the last fourteen years living in Missouri, California, Colorado, Indiana, and Tennessee. She's married to a retired Army man who now gets to follow her around the country.
Follow SUSAN:
Facebook: www.facebook.com/authorsstoker
www.facebook.com/authorsusanstoker
Instagram: www.instagram.com/authorsusanstoker
Twitter: www.twitter.com/susan_stoker
Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/susan...
Amazon: http://amzn.to/238Jw8c
For all upcoming books click here: http://www.stokeraces.com/coming-soon...
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March 12, 2026Got the ARC!
SHE was his bully? Sign me in.
SHE was his bully? Sign me in.
September 21, 2026
Past Hurts, New Beginnings
The following ratings are out of 5:
Romance: 💙💛💚🖤
Chemistry: 🧪🧪🧪🧪
Story/Plot: 📕📗📘📙
World building: 🌏🌍🌎🌏🌍
Character development: 😋😀😍😎
Narration: 🎙🎙🎙🎙🎙
Narration type: Dual Narration
Main Characters and Plot Overview
The Pilot, the third book in Susan Stoker’s Alpha Cove series, brings together Lincoln “Linc” Young, a former Air Force fighter pilot, and Harper Bates, the woman who made his high school years miserable by bullying him. Linc has returned to Maine following his father’s death to help his mother, while also dealing with the PTSD, nightmares, and lingering effects of his military service. Harper is back in her hometown as a single mother trying to rebuild her life with her son, Kash, after things have fallen apart.
What immediately caught my attention was the role reversal between Linc and Harper. Harper once had the power to make Linc feel small, but now she is the one struggling and Linc is the person who offers her and Kash a safe place to stay. After an argument with her father leaves Harper needing somewhere to go, Linc steps in rather than holding her past against her. That decision leads to the forced proximity that drives much of the romance.
Kash ended up being a particularly important part of the story for me. Linc recognizes something familiar in the boy because he remembers what it was like to be bullied himself. When Kash experiences bullying at school, Linc’s protective instincts kick in, and watching their relationship develop was one of my favorite parts of the book. The fact that Kash becomes central to the suspense later in the story gives those earlier scenes even more emotional weight.
Highlights and Limitations
The strongest part of this story for me was the emotional development between Linc and Harper. I appreciated that Harper isn’t allowed to simply forget what she did in high school. Her guilt over how she treated Linc remains part of their relationship, and she has to confront the person she used to be, even though she felt terrible about the way she treated him from the start. I found that much more satisfying than having the bullying treated as something that could simply be brushed aside because the two characters are attracted to each other.
Linc also won me over because his protective nature isn’t limited to Harper. His connection with Kash feels genuine, particularly because he understands the boy’s experience instead of merely swooping in as the heroic adult. I loved seeing Linc become someone Kash could depend on.
The suspense involving Kash adds another layer to what initially looks like a story primarily about forgiveness and second chances. I did think some of the romantic and suspense elements competed for attention at times. I would have liked a little more room for Harper and Linc to work through the emotional consequences of their shared history before everything else intensified. That said, the combination of PTSD, old guilt, single motherhood, bullying, and the developing relationship kept the story emotionally busy in a way that held my attention.
Narration
Andi Arndt and Jeremy York were a strong pairing for this audiobook. Arndt brought the vulnerability and determination I wanted from Harper, particularly during the scenes where she is dealing with her father’s judgment and trying to protect Kash. York gave Linc the steady, controlled quality that fits a character who keeps so much of his trauma beneath the surface.
I especially liked how the narration handled Linc’s more emotional moments. His PTSD and nightmares are part of his character without completely defining him, and York’s performance helped maintain that balance. With the audiobook running just over eleven hours, the two narrators kept the pacing easy to follow and made the shifts between the characters feel natural.
Final Thoughts
I went into The Pilot expecting to be interested in the former-bully/former-victim setup, but I ended up being much more invested in Linc and Kash’s relationship than I anticipated. There is something especially satisfying about seeing Linc, who once experienced the cruelty of being singled out, become the person who makes sure Kash doesn’t feel alone.
Harper also surprised me. I didn’t expect her remorse to play such an important role in the story, and I appreciated that Stoker made her acknowledge the harm she caused instead of giving her an easy pass. Linc’s willingness to see the woman Harper has become, rather than only remembering the teenager she was, became one of the most meaningful parts of their romance for me.
This was an emotional, protective, small-town military romance with a suspense thread that kept the story moving. Andi Arndt and Jeremy York were excellent choices for the audiobook, and I enjoyed spending time with the Young family. For me, The Pilot was a heartfelt addition to Alpha Cove that left me especially attached to Linc and Kash.
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The following ratings are out of 5:
Romance: 💙💛💚🖤
Chemistry: 🧪🧪🧪🧪
Story/Plot: 📕📗📘📙
World building: 🌏🌍🌎🌏🌍
Character development: 😋😀😍😎
Narration: 🎙🎙🎙🎙🎙
Narration type: Dual Narration
Main Characters and Plot Overview
The Pilot, the third book in Susan Stoker’s Alpha Cove series, brings together Lincoln “Linc” Young, a former Air Force fighter pilot, and Harper Bates, the woman who made his high school years miserable by bullying him. Linc has returned to Maine following his father’s death to help his mother, while also dealing with the PTSD, nightmares, and lingering effects of his military service. Harper is back in her hometown as a single mother trying to rebuild her life with her son, Kash, after things have fallen apart.
What immediately caught my attention was the role reversal between Linc and Harper. Harper once had the power to make Linc feel small, but now she is the one struggling and Linc is the person who offers her and Kash a safe place to stay. After an argument with her father leaves Harper needing somewhere to go, Linc steps in rather than holding her past against her. That decision leads to the forced proximity that drives much of the romance.
Kash ended up being a particularly important part of the story for me. Linc recognizes something familiar in the boy because he remembers what it was like to be bullied himself. When Kash experiences bullying at school, Linc’s protective instincts kick in, and watching their relationship develop was one of my favorite parts of the book. The fact that Kash becomes central to the suspense later in the story gives those earlier scenes even more emotional weight.
Highlights and Limitations
The strongest part of this story for me was the emotional development between Linc and Harper. I appreciated that Harper isn’t allowed to simply forget what she did in high school. Her guilt over how she treated Linc remains part of their relationship, and she has to confront the person she used to be, even though she felt terrible about the way she treated him from the start. I found that much more satisfying than having the bullying treated as something that could simply be brushed aside because the two characters are attracted to each other.
Linc also won me over because his protective nature isn’t limited to Harper. His connection with Kash feels genuine, particularly because he understands the boy’s experience instead of merely swooping in as the heroic adult. I loved seeing Linc become someone Kash could depend on.
The suspense involving Kash adds another layer to what initially looks like a story primarily about forgiveness and second chances. I did think some of the romantic and suspense elements competed for attention at times. I would have liked a little more room for Harper and Linc to work through the emotional consequences of their shared history before everything else intensified. That said, the combination of PTSD, old guilt, single motherhood, bullying, and the developing relationship kept the story emotionally busy in a way that held my attention.
Narration
Andi Arndt and Jeremy York were a strong pairing for this audiobook. Arndt brought the vulnerability and determination I wanted from Harper, particularly during the scenes where she is dealing with her father’s judgment and trying to protect Kash. York gave Linc the steady, controlled quality that fits a character who keeps so much of his trauma beneath the surface.
I especially liked how the narration handled Linc’s more emotional moments. His PTSD and nightmares are part of his character without completely defining him, and York’s performance helped maintain that balance. With the audiobook running just over eleven hours, the two narrators kept the pacing easy to follow and made the shifts between the characters feel natural.
Final Thoughts
I went into The Pilot expecting to be interested in the former-bully/former-victim setup, but I ended up being much more invested in Linc and Kash’s relationship than I anticipated. There is something especially satisfying about seeing Linc, who once experienced the cruelty of being singled out, become the person who makes sure Kash doesn’t feel alone.
Harper also surprised me. I didn’t expect her remorse to play such an important role in the story, and I appreciated that Stoker made her acknowledge the harm she caused instead of giving her an easy pass. Linc’s willingness to see the woman Harper has become, rather than only remembering the teenager she was, became one of the most meaningful parts of their romance for me.
This was an emotional, protective, small-town military romance with a suspense thread that kept the story moving. Andi Arndt and Jeremy York were excellent choices for the audiobook, and I enjoyed spending time with the Young family. For me, The Pilot was a heartfelt addition to Alpha Cove that left me especially attached to Linc and Kash.
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August 14, 2026I was debating if I should write anything about this book because it started out nicely but I found myself struggling because things weren’t feeling right… so, these are my subjective feelings but sharing them here is the reminder for myself about what worked and what didn’t!
While I know many readers enjoy Susan Stoker's alpha heroes, The Pilot didn't work for me, mainly due to how it handles some themes.
The book deals with serious issues like drugging, sexual assault and military PTSD.
To me, it felt like these important psychological struggles were wrapped up a bit too quickly and neatly.
Using intimacy as “fix" for PTSD or expecting a survivor to quickly find a "silver lining" in a violent crime felt unrealistic to me.
Healing is a long, messy process and sometimes survival is enough without needing a perfect, tidy bow on it…
Framing the heroine's resulting pregnancy (from being drgged and graped) with a casual "it's not the baby's fault" tone, felt a bit regressive regarding a woman's choice and autonomy after a violation.
Also having her child face bullying as a sort of cosmic "karma" for her own past mistakes as a high school bully felt like an unnecessarily and forced way to drive the plot forward…
The forced proximity and the rush to create a cozy family dynamic didn't leave enough room for the characters to truly process what they had been through.
This wasn't the right fit for me, but readers who prefer a “traditional”, fast-paced alpha protector story where everything works out perfectly might feel differently… 🤷🏻♀️
While I know many readers enjoy Susan Stoker's alpha heroes, The Pilot didn't work for me, mainly due to how it handles some themes.
The book deals with serious issues like drugging, sexual assault and military PTSD.
To me, it felt like these important psychological struggles were wrapped up a bit too quickly and neatly.
Using intimacy as “fix" for PTSD or expecting a survivor to quickly find a "silver lining" in a violent crime felt unrealistic to me.
Healing is a long, messy process and sometimes survival is enough without needing a perfect, tidy bow on it…
Framing the heroine's resulting pregnancy (from being drgged and graped) with a casual "it's not the baby's fault" tone, felt a bit regressive regarding a woman's choice and autonomy after a violation.
Also having her child face bullying as a sort of cosmic "karma" for her own past mistakes as a high school bully felt like an unnecessarily and forced way to drive the plot forward…
The forced proximity and the rush to create a cozy family dynamic didn't leave enough room for the characters to truly process what they had been through.
This wasn't the right fit for me, but readers who prefer a “traditional”, fast-paced alpha protector story where everything works out perfectly might feel differently… 🤷🏻♀️
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 20, 2026
I will start by admitting that I haven't read any of the others in this series, but it didn't feel like I needed to to be able to read this.
I started out thinking this was going to be a really easy and fun read. Unfortunately didn't love this quite as much as I had hoped. I appreciated that the MC's were in their very late 30's, it was nice reading about older MC's for a change. I liked they had so much established in their lives, and their own histories. I found the concept of the fact that Linc offered a place to stay to his former bully was interesting. Harper and Kash had such a good relationship.
But it just fell flat. At one point they seemed to jump from finally getting together, to suddenly declaring their love for each other, and they'd been in close proximity for all of a few weeks. The next part of the storyline felt like it was shoehorned in just keep it going that bit further. I get that they knew each other in school and everything, but it just felt a bit much. I just didn't vibe with it as much as I'd hoped and I don't know if I'll read the rest of the books in the series.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC in exchange for an honest review
I started out thinking this was going to be a really easy and fun read. Unfortunately didn't love this quite as much as I had hoped. I appreciated that the MC's were in their very late 30's, it was nice reading about older MC's for a change. I liked they had so much established in their lives, and their own histories. I found the concept of the fact that Linc offered a place to stay to his former bully was interesting. Harper and Kash had such a good relationship.
But it just fell flat. At one point they seemed to jump from finally getting together, to suddenly declaring their love for each other, and they'd been in close proximity for all of a few weeks. The next part of the storyline felt like it was shoehorned in just keep it going that bit further. I get that they knew each other in school and everything, but it just felt a bit much. I just didn't vibe with it as much as I'd hoped and I don't know if I'll read the rest of the books in the series.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC in exchange for an honest review
August 8, 2026
I don't know why I keep trying to read this author. I guess because everyone else seems to really like her books. This is my 10th book. The average rating is 1.9. I own many of her books and keep reading with hopes of finding one that I like. I won't be buying anymore new ones. If I decide to read any of her books I will read one of the ones that I own.
There was no action until the kidnapping, which was toward the end. The rest of the book was about bullying over and over and over. Then throw in Linc's problems with evading capture in North Korea. It was just wash and repeat.
I read the 2 previous books and they received 1 and 2 stars. So I am definitely not reading the last book in the series because I don't expect anything better. All three books had the same action, kidnapping. Toward the end of all three books, 1 or more people were kidnapped. So, as I said, wash and repeat.
After getting 1/3 of the way into the book, I skipped to the kidnapping part. That part was not even exciting either as the situation had not reached a life and death scenario when the victims were found. When everyone finally realized that 2 people were missing, it was easy to bring everything to an end. The bad guy was just stupid. None of his shenanigans were hidden. Therefore, there was no suspense.
Boring book.
There was no action until the kidnapping, which was toward the end. The rest of the book was about bullying over and over and over. Then throw in Linc's problems with evading capture in North Korea. It was just wash and repeat.
I read the 2 previous books and they received 1 and 2 stars. So I am definitely not reading the last book in the series because I don't expect anything better. All three books had the same action, kidnapping. Toward the end of all three books, 1 or more people were kidnapped. So, as I said, wash and repeat.
After getting 1/3 of the way into the book, I skipped to the kidnapping part. That part was not even exciting either as the situation had not reached a life and death scenario when the victims were found. When everyone finally realized that 2 people were missing, it was easy to bring everything to an end. The bad guy was just stupid. None of his shenanigans were hidden. Therefore, there was no suspense.
Boring book.
August 10, 2026
I LOVED everything about this one!! Single mom, she was his previous bully, and the small town & found family feels.
I loved Kashmir in this one and the way he cared for his mom. He knew the struggle she had and the sacrifices she had to make as a single mom and he was always checking in with her to make sure she was ok. Coming from a single mom household, it made me so thankful for my mom and the sacrifices she had to make to take care of my little brother and I.
The romance was also cute in this one. Our main characters Linc and Harper are in their late 30’s. They are starting over after Harper bullying Linc back in elementary/high school.
If you’re looking for a small town, healing from past trauma, and single mom romance, this is one you want to pick up or listen to!
I loved Kashmir in this one and the way he cared for his mom. He knew the struggle she had and the sacrifices she had to make as a single mom and he was always checking in with her to make sure she was ok. Coming from a single mom household, it made me so thankful for my mom and the sacrifices she had to make to take care of my little brother and I.
The romance was also cute in this one. Our main characters Linc and Harper are in their late 30’s. They are starting over after Harper bullying Linc back in elementary/high school.
If you’re looking for a small town, healing from past trauma, and single mom romance, this is one you want to pick up or listen to!
August 5, 2026
The way I loved Lincoln & Harper!! You wouldn’t expect these two to end up together—she used to bully him in school, but she ends up back in their hometown, living with her dad, as a last resort to provide for her son. I’d loved seeing Linc and Kash get closer through the first couple books, but the way Linc steps in to help Harper and Kash now? SWOON. Lincoln & Harper understand each other better than anyone else, and I loved the way they saw past each other’s masks. The way they became a safe space for each other. It was all just so good, and I’ve been absolutely loving this whole series!!
[ARC review]
[ARC review]
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September 10, 2026She used to BULLY him. Color me intrigued. Now he’s the man offering her and her son a place to stay. EVEN MORE INTRIGUED. The Pilot by Susan Stoker was such a sweet surprise. Susan is a new to me author, so I wanted to check out the Alpha Cove. Loved this softer romantic suspense. There’s still trauma, PTSD, suspense, and plenty of emotional baggage, but at its heart? This is a story about healing, forgiveness, family, and finding your way home.
Linc and Harper are in their late 30s and both starting over in completely different ways. Harper is a struggling single mom trying to rebuild her life and protect her son, Kash. Linc is a former fighter pilot carrying the weight of PTSD, nightmares, and everything he survived. And when he sees Harper struggling, he doesn’t hold her past against her. He helps. He shows up. He becomes a safe place. AND THE WAY HE IS WITH KASH?! Swoon.
Kash absolutely stole my heart. This sweet, sensitive boy sees how hard his mom has worked and how much she’s sacrificed for him. He’s trying so hard to be strong for her, while also desperately needing someone to see HIM. Watching him find that with Linc and the Young family was one of my favorite parts of this book.
And that single mom connection hit me personally. The way Kash recognized his mom’s sacrifices as a single parent to me and my brother. Felt al ot of resonance to her. I also really appreciated how Harper’s past bullying was handled. The story doesn’t excuse what she did. She knows she hurt Linc. She's remorseful and doesn't make excuses. And instead of pretending the past didn’t happen, we get to watch her take responsibility and grow into someone better.
Linc and Harper slowly become something neither of them expected. They see past each other’s defenses, communicate openly, and become a kind of refuge for one another. No ridiculous miscommunication drama. No unnecessary third act breakup. Just two imperfect adults figuring out how to trust, heal, and love again. Plus small-town Maine, found family, protective hero energy, emotional healing, and some SPICE. If only it weren't 3rd person narration (which I didn't realize when I requested the book).
Andi Arndt and Jeremy York are great. Their performances bring so much warmth and emotional depth to Linc and Harper. Jeremy’s grounded delivery for Linc paired with Andi’s softness and strength for Harper worked SO well together.
What to expect:
✈️ Small Town Romance
✈️ Single Mom
✈️ Former Bully / Redemption (She was the bully)
✈️ Protective Alpha Hero
✈️ PTSD / Trauma Recovery
✈️ Found Family
✈️ Forced Proximity
✈️ Emotional Healing
✈️ Open Communication
✈️ Second Chances
✈️ Low-Stakes Suspense
✈️ 3rd Person Narration
🎧 Andi Arndt & Jeremy York
🎧 Dual Narration
Linc and Harper are in their late 30s and both starting over in completely different ways. Harper is a struggling single mom trying to rebuild her life and protect her son, Kash. Linc is a former fighter pilot carrying the weight of PTSD, nightmares, and everything he survived. And when he sees Harper struggling, he doesn’t hold her past against her. He helps. He shows up. He becomes a safe place. AND THE WAY HE IS WITH KASH?! Swoon.
Kash absolutely stole my heart. This sweet, sensitive boy sees how hard his mom has worked and how much she’s sacrificed for him. He’s trying so hard to be strong for her, while also desperately needing someone to see HIM. Watching him find that with Linc and the Young family was one of my favorite parts of this book.
And that single mom connection hit me personally. The way Kash recognized his mom’s sacrifices as a single parent to me and my brother. Felt al ot of resonance to her. I also really appreciated how Harper’s past bullying was handled. The story doesn’t excuse what she did. She knows she hurt Linc. She's remorseful and doesn't make excuses. And instead of pretending the past didn’t happen, we get to watch her take responsibility and grow into someone better.
Linc and Harper slowly become something neither of them expected. They see past each other’s defenses, communicate openly, and become a kind of refuge for one another. No ridiculous miscommunication drama. No unnecessary third act breakup. Just two imperfect adults figuring out how to trust, heal, and love again. Plus small-town Maine, found family, protective hero energy, emotional healing, and some SPICE. If only it weren't 3rd person narration (which I didn't realize when I requested the book).
Andi Arndt and Jeremy York are great. Their performances bring so much warmth and emotional depth to Linc and Harper. Jeremy’s grounded delivery for Linc paired with Andi’s softness and strength for Harper worked SO well together.
What to expect:
✈️ Small Town Romance
✈️ Single Mom
✈️ Former Bully / Redemption (She was the bully)
✈️ Protective Alpha Hero
✈️ PTSD / Trauma Recovery
✈️ Found Family
✈️ Forced Proximity
✈️ Emotional Healing
✈️ Open Communication
✈️ Second Chances
✈️ Low-Stakes Suspense
✈️ 3rd Person Narration
🎧 Andi Arndt & Jeremy York
🎧 Dual Narration
August 10, 2026
Linc and Harper have a history from high school here she was the bully and Linc was her victim. But life has a strange way of giving karma. Harper came back to Maine with her son, whom Linc has taken an interest to and giving some positive male attention. Harper and her son move in with Linc, where Harper and Linc fall in love. Both Harper and Linc have trauma that they share and decide to move through it together, while loving and raising Kash. I did enjoy Linc’s story! Looking forward to the next brother’s story.
September 21, 2026
Circumstances made me change
I'm truly better now
Verdict: Remorse
I'm truly better now
Verdict: Remorse
October 11, 2026
BROKEN WINGS, SECOND CHANCES, AND UNCONDITIONAL LOVE
One thing readers can always expect from a Susan Stoker military romance is a hot alpha hero and a smart, sassy heroine. But in her Alpha Cove series, Stoker changes the formula. Her heroes are still fiercely protective military men or veterans, but the heroines often steal the show!
In The Pilot, book three, Stoker changes things up again. I think she enjoys keeping readers on their toes!
Lincoln Young is a decorated Air Force pilot who survived being shot down over North Korea, evading capture for a week despite devastating injuries. A true Stoker superstar! But survival came at a price. Now home in Lobster Cove, Maine, Linc struggles with severe PTSD, insomnia, and terrifying nightmares.
Enter Harper Bates. Once the popular high school beauty queen and classic mean girl, Harper has discovered that karma really IS a bitch! Her dreams shattered and confidence destroyed, she's returned home with her young son, Kash. And wouldn't you know it? The scrawny, nerdy boy she once bullied has grown into a handsome military hero!
Oh, how the tables have turned!
But Kash is the heart of this story. Bright, socially awkward, and obsessed with all things nerdy, he's remarkably like the boy Lincoln once was. Watching Linc gently mentor and befriend her son forces Harper to confront her past cruelty. And that unlikely friendship becomes the bridge connecting two wounded hearts.
Harper isn't the usual confident Stoker heroine. She's drowning in shame, convinced she doesn't deserve forgiveness, much less love.
But she is loved. Completely and unconditionally. Long before she recognizes it, and even longer before she trusts it.
And that love doesn't come from Lincoln alone.
Evelyn Young, the wonderfully loving family matriarch, welcomes Harper and Kash with open arms. First, she becomes the cookie-baking grandmother Kash never had. Then, through gentle encouragement and stories about raising Lincoln, she offers Harper the motherly love and wisdom she's been starving for.
Watching Harper blossom under Evelyn's loving attention brought tears to my eyes, reminding me of my own mother's loving homilies.
Another Hallmark movie moment! And I loved every minute!
But it's Lincoln who finally helps Harper escape her emotional prison.
Their romance is a deliciously slow burn with plenty of heat! Everyone—even Kash—recognizes their attraction. But neither believes they're worthy of love.
Only when Harper reveals the trauma that destroyed her dreams does Lincoln begin sharing his own nightmares. Their vulnerability breaks down the walls between them, allowing them to finally see each other—scars, mistakes, strengths, and all.
Harper helps Lincoln recognize that surviving his ordeal was an extraordinary act of courage. With her love, he finally begins finding peace and sleep. In turn, Lincoln helps Harper see that she's no longer the cruel teenager she once was, but a strong, devoted mother deserving of forgiveness and love.
They don't simply fall in love. They rescue each other.
As a former military nurse, I appreciate Stoker's empathy for veterans—and civilians—living with PTSD. Love doesn't erase trauma, but trust, acceptance, and vulnerability can open the door to healing.
And Stoker has a gift for reaching into her readers' hearts and, borrowing from Roberta Flack, killing me softly with her words!
But don't think she's forgotten the suspense!
Kash's increasingly troubling encounters with schoolyard bullies create an ominous undercurrent. I could feel something terrible coming—that awful heaviness in my chest as I waited for the inevitable attack.
When danger finally strikes, I couldn't decide whether I was relieved the suspense had broken or terrified it might already be too late to save Kash!
Watching Lincoln and his family race to his rescue had me holding my breath.
Kudos, Susan Stoker! You had me on the edge of my seat AGAIN!
Ultimately, The Pilot is a beautiful story of second chances, forgiveness, redemption, and the extraordinary healing power of unconditional love. Woven throughout is the found family that makes Alpha Cove so special.
Harper learns her mistakes don't define her future. Lincoln discovers even heroes need someone to lean on. Together, they find a love that embraces their scars rather than asking them to hide them.
Because sometimes the greatest rescue isn't saving someone from danger. It's helping them believe they're worthy of being saved.
And THAT is what makes The Pilot soar!
One thing readers can always expect from a Susan Stoker military romance is a hot alpha hero and a smart, sassy heroine. But in her Alpha Cove series, Stoker changes the formula. Her heroes are still fiercely protective military men or veterans, but the heroines often steal the show!
In The Pilot, book three, Stoker changes things up again. I think she enjoys keeping readers on their toes!
Lincoln Young is a decorated Air Force pilot who survived being shot down over North Korea, evading capture for a week despite devastating injuries. A true Stoker superstar! But survival came at a price. Now home in Lobster Cove, Maine, Linc struggles with severe PTSD, insomnia, and terrifying nightmares.
Enter Harper Bates. Once the popular high school beauty queen and classic mean girl, Harper has discovered that karma really IS a bitch! Her dreams shattered and confidence destroyed, she's returned home with her young son, Kash. And wouldn't you know it? The scrawny, nerdy boy she once bullied has grown into a handsome military hero!
Oh, how the tables have turned!
But Kash is the heart of this story. Bright, socially awkward, and obsessed with all things nerdy, he's remarkably like the boy Lincoln once was. Watching Linc gently mentor and befriend her son forces Harper to confront her past cruelty. And that unlikely friendship becomes the bridge connecting two wounded hearts.
Harper isn't the usual confident Stoker heroine. She's drowning in shame, convinced she doesn't deserve forgiveness, much less love.
But she is loved. Completely and unconditionally. Long before she recognizes it, and even longer before she trusts it.
And that love doesn't come from Lincoln alone.
Evelyn Young, the wonderfully loving family matriarch, welcomes Harper and Kash with open arms. First, she becomes the cookie-baking grandmother Kash never had. Then, through gentle encouragement and stories about raising Lincoln, she offers Harper the motherly love and wisdom she's been starving for.
Watching Harper blossom under Evelyn's loving attention brought tears to my eyes, reminding me of my own mother's loving homilies.
Another Hallmark movie moment! And I loved every minute!
But it's Lincoln who finally helps Harper escape her emotional prison.
Their romance is a deliciously slow burn with plenty of heat! Everyone—even Kash—recognizes their attraction. But neither believes they're worthy of love.
Only when Harper reveals the trauma that destroyed her dreams does Lincoln begin sharing his own nightmares. Their vulnerability breaks down the walls between them, allowing them to finally see each other—scars, mistakes, strengths, and all.
Harper helps Lincoln recognize that surviving his ordeal was an extraordinary act of courage. With her love, he finally begins finding peace and sleep. In turn, Lincoln helps Harper see that she's no longer the cruel teenager she once was, but a strong, devoted mother deserving of forgiveness and love.
They don't simply fall in love. They rescue each other.
As a former military nurse, I appreciate Stoker's empathy for veterans—and civilians—living with PTSD. Love doesn't erase trauma, but trust, acceptance, and vulnerability can open the door to healing.
And Stoker has a gift for reaching into her readers' hearts and, borrowing from Roberta Flack, killing me softly with her words!
But don't think she's forgotten the suspense!
Kash's increasingly troubling encounters with schoolyard bullies create an ominous undercurrent. I could feel something terrible coming—that awful heaviness in my chest as I waited for the inevitable attack.
When danger finally strikes, I couldn't decide whether I was relieved the suspense had broken or terrified it might already be too late to save Kash!
Watching Lincoln and his family race to his rescue had me holding my breath.
Kudos, Susan Stoker! You had me on the edge of my seat AGAIN!
Ultimately, The Pilot is a beautiful story of second chances, forgiveness, redemption, and the extraordinary healing power of unconditional love. Woven throughout is the found family that makes Alpha Cove so special.
Harper learns her mistakes don't define her future. Lincoln discovers even heroes need someone to lean on. Together, they find a love that embraces their scars rather than asking them to hide them.
Because sometimes the greatest rescue isn't saving someone from danger. It's helping them believe they're worthy of being saved.
And THAT is what makes The Pilot soar!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
3.5 Stars (rounded up)
One Liner: Low-stakes but with triggers
Lincoln (Linc) Young is an ex-fighter pilot with PTSD who has returned home to Maine to be with his family. He sure didn’t expect to cross paths with the girl who was his high school bully or her kind and sensitive son, Kash.
Harper once had dreams of becoming a model and ruling the world. Now, she is a single mother with no home and a job that barely pays enough. Her son is the only bright spot in her life. When she hits rock bottom, she doesn’t expect the person she bullied in school to help her or be so good to her son.
The story comes in Harper and Linc’s third-person POVs (plus a few scenes from Kash’s third-person POV).
My Thoughts
The cover isn’t my kind, but the premise was intriguing. Normally, I’m not a fan of the “bullies have reasons” trope. But here, it seemed that she had already learned her lesson. The dynamics would be different with them as adults, and he is seemingly in a much better position in life.
The dual POV is helpful, though after a point, the shifts happened even within a chapter with scene breaks, but it was still confusing. Luckily, the third-person POV makes it a bit easier to go with the flow.
This is the third book in the series and my first read (of the author as well). While it does work as a standalone, I can’t help but feel as if I’m missing important information. Did the MCs interact a little in the previous book(s)? Did the kid have a small role in that one?
I ask because this book starts with an established premise of the kid being friends with the MMC and his family. The interactions show the MCs' familiarity with each other, and this is in the present (not the past high school stuff). The opening begins with the FMC’s backstory and the MMC offering her his home as a place to stay. It does sound like the offer came out of nowhere, unless there’s something in the previous books. I assumed that there was. (Update: I read a few reviews, and yes, the previous books have a lead for this one).
Back to the story. This one is pretty low-stakes. The characters are in their late 30s and have their issues. There are some major triggers too, so check those out first.
Bullying is a major theme, given that it was a part of their past and their present (the kid is being bullied at school). What I like is that they don’t brush it under the carpet or whitewash her actions. The FMC is very remorseful and is determined to prove herself a better person. She openly admits her faults, the hurt she caused, etc. Is it because she suffered so much? That’s an interesting question to ask.
The MMC, despite the PTSD, insomnia, and nightmares, is a lovely guy. He is kind, stable, and someone who knows his mind.
The characters communicate well, so it eliminates the need for miscommunication drama. The love story progresses a bit too quickly if you see this as a standalone (which I did). It might feel different from a series reader.
My favorite is the kid, Kash. He sees his mother’s struggles, he sees the love the MMCs and his family offer, and he wants to prove himself. What I would have liked is more of his POV. Instead of springing it on the reader in the last quarter, we could have gotten a few scenes from the beginning.
There are two heavy chapters in the middle of the book, where both MCs reveal their darkest secrets. While I appreciate them talking about it first, the content (back-to-back trauma) makes it hard. A small breather would have been nice. This is followed up by open-door spice, so the middle part is rather interesting.
I appreciate the lack of third-act breakup. It wasn’t necessary. The external conflict brought enough tension and did the job. Also, this is low-stakes anyway.
The epilogue is actually a lead for the next book. I might give it a read.
To summarize, The Pilot is engaging enough even with a slightly slower pace and deals with some dark themes. It is also about finding peace and love, family support, and what it means to have a person you can call your home.
Thank you, NetGalley and Montlake, for the eARC. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
#NetGalley #ThePilot
One Liner: Low-stakes but with triggers
Lincoln (Linc) Young is an ex-fighter pilot with PTSD who has returned home to Maine to be with his family. He sure didn’t expect to cross paths with the girl who was his high school bully or her kind and sensitive son, Kash.
Harper once had dreams of becoming a model and ruling the world. Now, she is a single mother with no home and a job that barely pays enough. Her son is the only bright spot in her life. When she hits rock bottom, she doesn’t expect the person she bullied in school to help her or be so good to her son.
The story comes in Harper and Linc’s third-person POVs (plus a few scenes from Kash’s third-person POV).
My Thoughts
The cover isn’t my kind, but the premise was intriguing. Normally, I’m not a fan of the “bullies have reasons” trope. But here, it seemed that she had already learned her lesson. The dynamics would be different with them as adults, and he is seemingly in a much better position in life.
The dual POV is helpful, though after a point, the shifts happened even within a chapter with scene breaks, but it was still confusing. Luckily, the third-person POV makes it a bit easier to go with the flow.
This is the third book in the series and my first read (of the author as well). While it does work as a standalone, I can’t help but feel as if I’m missing important information. Did the MCs interact a little in the previous book(s)? Did the kid have a small role in that one?
I ask because this book starts with an established premise of the kid being friends with the MMC and his family. The interactions show the MCs' familiarity with each other, and this is in the present (not the past high school stuff). The opening begins with the FMC’s backstory and the MMC offering her his home as a place to stay. It does sound like the offer came out of nowhere, unless there’s something in the previous books. I assumed that there was. (Update: I read a few reviews, and yes, the previous books have a lead for this one).
Back to the story. This one is pretty low-stakes. The characters are in their late 30s and have their issues. There are some major triggers too, so check those out first.
Bullying is a major theme, given that it was a part of their past and their present (the kid is being bullied at school). What I like is that they don’t brush it under the carpet or whitewash her actions. The FMC is very remorseful and is determined to prove herself a better person. She openly admits her faults, the hurt she caused, etc. Is it because she suffered so much? That’s an interesting question to ask.
The MMC, despite the PTSD, insomnia, and nightmares, is a lovely guy. He is kind, stable, and someone who knows his mind.
The characters communicate well, so it eliminates the need for miscommunication drama. The love story progresses a bit too quickly if you see this as a standalone (which I did). It might feel different from a series reader.
My favorite is the kid, Kash. He sees his mother’s struggles, he sees the love the MMCs and his family offer, and he wants to prove himself. What I would have liked is more of his POV. Instead of springing it on the reader in the last quarter, we could have gotten a few scenes from the beginning.
There are two heavy chapters in the middle of the book, where both MCs reveal their darkest secrets. While I appreciate them talking about it first, the content (back-to-back trauma) makes it hard. A small breather would have been nice. This is followed up by open-door spice, so the middle part is rather interesting.
I appreciate the lack of third-act breakup. It wasn’t necessary. The external conflict brought enough tension and did the job. Also, this is low-stakes anyway.
The epilogue is actually a lead for the next book. I might give it a read.
To summarize, The Pilot is engaging enough even with a slightly slower pace and deals with some dark themes. It is also about finding peace and love, family support, and what it means to have a person you can call your home.
Thank you, NetGalley and Montlake, for the eARC. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
#NetGalley #ThePilot
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
If you’re planning to start this series, I’d absolutely suggest reading the books in order because each Young brother’s story connects closely to the next. The earlier books build the emotional foundation for The Pilot, and the family dynamic hits much harder when you already know the characters.
The Pilot center around Lincoln “Linc” Young, a former Air Force pilot carrying the weight of trauma, sleepless nights, and painful memories after being medically retired. Following his father’s passing, Linc returns to Rockville with his brothers to support their mother, expecting familiar faces and old routines — but not Harper Bates. The same Harper who once made his teenage years miserable through constant bullying is suddenly back in town too, struggling to rebuild her life with her young son, Kash.
Harper has reached a point where she feels trapped in every direction. Living under her judgmental father’s roof while trying to provide for Kash has left her exhausted and desperate for a fresh start. One unexpected phone call from Kash changes everything, leading Linc to offer them a place to stay despite the history between him and Harper. What begins as an uneasy arrangement slowly turns into something far more emotional and meaningful.
One of the strongest parts of this story is the character growth. Harper isn’t written as a flawless heroine, and that honestly made her feel far more real. She’s forced to confront the damage she caused Linc years ago while also dealing with the mistakes and hardships from her adult life. Watching her try to become someone better — both for herself and for Kash — added a lot of emotional depth to the story.
Linc was equally compelling. Beneath his calm and dependable nature is someone struggling deeply with PTSD, insomnia, and the emotional scars left from both his military career and childhood. Even with everything he’s carrying, he still becomes a source of comfort and stability for Kash, and their bond ended up being one of the most heartwarming aspects of the book. It genuinely felt like they healed parts of each other that had been broken for years.
Kash completely steals scenes throughout the story. His relationship with Linc develops naturally and adds warmth, humor, and emotional balance to some heavier moments. The small-town atmosphere, combined with the closeness of the Young family, gives the book a comforting sense of community and belonging that makes the emotional moments hit even harder.
The romance itself develops at a steady pace, moving from tension and unresolved history into trust, vulnerability, and eventually love. As Harper and Linc begin opening up about their pasts, the story digs into difficult topics while still maintaining hopeful and tender moments throughout. Their chemistry felt believable, and the intimate scenes blended naturally into the emotional progression of their relationship.
Beyond the romance, the book also touches on healing, forgiveness, family bonds, and second chances in a way that feels genuine rather than overly dramatic. There’s emotional weight, a little suspense, plenty of sweet small-town moments, and just enough spice to balance everything out.
Overall, The Pilot delivers an emotional and satisfying story about two deeply flawed people finding comfort, healing, and hope in each other when they least expect it. By the end, seeing Harper, Linc, Kash, and the Young family come together left the story feeling incredibly wholesome and rewarding. And honestly, after finishing this one, I’m even more excited for the final Young brother’s book.
The Pilot center around Lincoln “Linc” Young, a former Air Force pilot carrying the weight of trauma, sleepless nights, and painful memories after being medically retired. Following his father’s passing, Linc returns to Rockville with his brothers to support their mother, expecting familiar faces and old routines — but not Harper Bates. The same Harper who once made his teenage years miserable through constant bullying is suddenly back in town too, struggling to rebuild her life with her young son, Kash.
Harper has reached a point where she feels trapped in every direction. Living under her judgmental father’s roof while trying to provide for Kash has left her exhausted and desperate for a fresh start. One unexpected phone call from Kash changes everything, leading Linc to offer them a place to stay despite the history between him and Harper. What begins as an uneasy arrangement slowly turns into something far more emotional and meaningful.
One of the strongest parts of this story is the character growth. Harper isn’t written as a flawless heroine, and that honestly made her feel far more real. She’s forced to confront the damage she caused Linc years ago while also dealing with the mistakes and hardships from her adult life. Watching her try to become someone better — both for herself and for Kash — added a lot of emotional depth to the story.
Linc was equally compelling. Beneath his calm and dependable nature is someone struggling deeply with PTSD, insomnia, and the emotional scars left from both his military career and childhood. Even with everything he’s carrying, he still becomes a source of comfort and stability for Kash, and their bond ended up being one of the most heartwarming aspects of the book. It genuinely felt like they healed parts of each other that had been broken for years.
Kash completely steals scenes throughout the story. His relationship with Linc develops naturally and adds warmth, humor, and emotional balance to some heavier moments. The small-town atmosphere, combined with the closeness of the Young family, gives the book a comforting sense of community and belonging that makes the emotional moments hit even harder.
The romance itself develops at a steady pace, moving from tension and unresolved history into trust, vulnerability, and eventually love. As Harper and Linc begin opening up about their pasts, the story digs into difficult topics while still maintaining hopeful and tender moments throughout. Their chemistry felt believable, and the intimate scenes blended naturally into the emotional progression of their relationship.
Beyond the romance, the book also touches on healing, forgiveness, family bonds, and second chances in a way that feels genuine rather than overly dramatic. There’s emotional weight, a little suspense, plenty of sweet small-town moments, and just enough spice to balance everything out.
Overall, The Pilot delivers an emotional and satisfying story about two deeply flawed people finding comfort, healing, and hope in each other when they least expect it. By the end, seeing Harper, Linc, Kash, and the Young family come together left the story feeling incredibly wholesome and rewarding. And honestly, after finishing this one, I’m even more excited for the final Young brother’s book.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Audiobook Review: The Pilot by Susan Stoker
Alpha Cove #3
Thank you to Brilliance Publishing and NetGalley for the Advanced Listener Copy.
Tropes
- Second chance romance
- Found family
- PTSD representation
- Single mom
- Rebuilding your life
- Soft suspense
Narration Notes
Andi Arndt and Jeremy York are chef’s kiss perfect for this installment. Arndt gives Harper the softness and quiet strength she deserves, while York nails Linc’s steady, grounded energy especially in the moments where his PTSD is present but not overwhelming. Their dual narration adds emotional texture to the story, and the pacing, tone, and character shifts feel effortless. This is one of those audios where the narrators elevate the material instead of simply performing it.
My Review
The Pilot releases on August 4, 2026, and like the rest of the Alpha Cove series, Kindle and audio drop the same day. If you’re a Kindle Unlimited reader, the audiobook is included.
This is an interconnected standalone, but I’m going to be honest: this one hits way harder if you’ve read the first two. Susan Stoker has been quietly planting emotional seeds for Linc and Harper since book one, and this book finally lets their story bloom.
We follow Linc the former pilot whose life changed after he crashed behind enemy lines. He survived days alone in the wilderness before rescue, and the PTSD he carries is woven into the narrative with care and nuance. After his father’s death, he returns to Maine to be close to his family, buys a rundown house, and tries to rebuild his life piece by piece.
Harper, the neighbor’s daughter we’ve known from earlier books, is also starting over. She’s a single mom, newly back in town, living with her father… and at one point, living in her car. No college degree, limited job options, and a baby boy she’s raising alone. We got hints of her struggle before, but this book finally gives her the space she deserves.
And yes — she and Linc went to school together.
And yes — she used to bully him.
And yes — she carries that guilt.
But when Linc sees her living in her car with her son, he doesn’t hesitate. He offers help, offers safety, offers compassion. He’s not stuck in the past; he sees who she is now.
Compared to the first two Alpha Cove books, this one is softer. The suspense is there because it’s Susan Stoker but it sits gently in the background. The heart of this story is healing, rebuilding, and choosing love even when life has been hard.
One of my favorite parts? Kash. Harper’s son absolutely steals the show. He’s kind, gentle, nerdy, and trying his best in a world that doesn’t always make space for boys like him. Watching him find his people, watching him be loved, watching him be seen it’s one of the most touching parts of the book. He’s the emotional heartbeat of this story.
I also loved how Stoker handles conversations around fertility, parenthood, and the choice not to have children. It’s compassionate, honest, and refreshingly nonjudgmental.
This is the softest Alpha Cove book so far and that softness works. It’s intimate, character‑driven, and deeply emotional. It’s about trauma, motherhood, forgiveness, rebuilding, and choosing gentleness even when life has been anything but gentle.
I loved it. I loved the pacing, the emotional beats, the way Linc and Harper grow, and the way Stoker lets their relationship breathe. It’s a love story first, everything else second.
Alpha Cove #3
Thank you to Brilliance Publishing and NetGalley for the Advanced Listener Copy.
Tropes
- Second chance romance
- Found family
- PTSD representation
- Single mom
- Rebuilding your life
- Soft suspense
Narration Notes
Andi Arndt and Jeremy York are chef’s kiss perfect for this installment. Arndt gives Harper the softness and quiet strength she deserves, while York nails Linc’s steady, grounded energy especially in the moments where his PTSD is present but not overwhelming. Their dual narration adds emotional texture to the story, and the pacing, tone, and character shifts feel effortless. This is one of those audios where the narrators elevate the material instead of simply performing it.
My Review
The Pilot releases on August 4, 2026, and like the rest of the Alpha Cove series, Kindle and audio drop the same day. If you’re a Kindle Unlimited reader, the audiobook is included.
This is an interconnected standalone, but I’m going to be honest: this one hits way harder if you’ve read the first two. Susan Stoker has been quietly planting emotional seeds for Linc and Harper since book one, and this book finally lets their story bloom.
We follow Linc the former pilot whose life changed after he crashed behind enemy lines. He survived days alone in the wilderness before rescue, and the PTSD he carries is woven into the narrative with care and nuance. After his father’s death, he returns to Maine to be close to his family, buys a rundown house, and tries to rebuild his life piece by piece.
Harper, the neighbor’s daughter we’ve known from earlier books, is also starting over. She’s a single mom, newly back in town, living with her father… and at one point, living in her car. No college degree, limited job options, and a baby boy she’s raising alone. We got hints of her struggle before, but this book finally gives her the space she deserves.
And yes — she and Linc went to school together.
And yes — she used to bully him.
And yes — she carries that guilt.
But when Linc sees her living in her car with her son, he doesn’t hesitate. He offers help, offers safety, offers compassion. He’s not stuck in the past; he sees who she is now.
Compared to the first two Alpha Cove books, this one is softer. The suspense is there because it’s Susan Stoker but it sits gently in the background. The heart of this story is healing, rebuilding, and choosing love even when life has been hard.
One of my favorite parts? Kash. Harper’s son absolutely steals the show. He’s kind, gentle, nerdy, and trying his best in a world that doesn’t always make space for boys like him. Watching him find his people, watching him be loved, watching him be seen it’s one of the most touching parts of the book. He’s the emotional heartbeat of this story.
I also loved how Stoker handles conversations around fertility, parenthood, and the choice not to have children. It’s compassionate, honest, and refreshingly nonjudgmental.
This is the softest Alpha Cove book so far and that softness works. It’s intimate, character‑driven, and deeply emotional. It’s about trauma, motherhood, forgiveness, rebuilding, and choosing gentleness even when life has been anything but gentle.
I loved it. I loved the pacing, the emotional beats, the way Linc and Harper grow, and the way Stoker lets their relationship breathe. It’s a love story first, everything else second.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
🛫Alpha Cove Book 3 🛫
Welcome back to Rockville, Maine, where the lobsters are fresh, the people are friendly and the Young family fellas are oh so very hot. The next installment in the Alpha Cove series by Susan Stoker has finally dropped. The Pilot is the story of ex-fighter pilot Lincoln “Linc” Young and his journey of finally finding his peace. I always recommend reading a series in order, and with this one, I strongly recommend it. Each brother has a book, and the first two play a big part in the next so please read, they are amazing.
Linc is a survivor, has been all his life. After his father’s death he and his brothers return to their hometown to help their mother during the aftermath. The small town of Rockville is mostly the same, but what he didn't expect was to run into his childhood bully. The woman who once made him feel small, who bullied him and made his life hell. Harper Bates. The same woman who is now stirring a different kind of emotion in him, one he doesn’t know what to do with. Linc has grown close to Harper’s son, Kash over the last year, he seems much of himself in the young boy. When he gets a late night call from Kash, asking him for help, he does the unthinkable and offers a helping hand to the small family.
Harper Bates has hit the place below rock-bottom, she’s returned to Rockville and to the one place she swore she would never would, her fathers house. The father that judges her for everything she does, and everything she doesn’t. She’s barely getting by, working as much as she can to get both Kash and herself out of her fathers house. Harper wants nothing more than for Kash to be happy and healthy, to have a childhood and enjoy being a kid. On a very bad night, a call from Kash to the one person she never expected, Harper finds herself and her son moving in with none other than Linc Young. The now man she bullied all those years ago. Linc gives her and Kash a safe place to live, encourages Kash in his passions and they slowly settle into a normal that Harper grows all too used to. Harper and Linc’s relationship changes quickly from roommate to romance, and together they slowly start to open up to one another more.
The Pilot was such a good read. As Linc slowly starts to open up to Harper, he shares more about his PTSD, insomnia and nightmares. In return, Harper shares about her time in the city, and Kash’s father. This is remarkably hard for both of them, and has Linc fighting his inner instincts when Harper shares more of her story, but together they are able to fight their demons back and find the sunshine on the other side. There is much to this story, and I really have to give it to the author for a killer plot. Linc needed Kash, Kash needed Linc, and Harper needed them both. Together they were able to heal past wounds, and even open a new path to Harper’s father. The Young family is amazing with their capacity to forgive and love, and seeing the family together in the end really made the story feel so warm.
The Pilot is a story filled with lovable small-town moments, family, romance, suspense, second chances and spice. I can’t wait for the last Young brother, I’m waiting for it.
4.5 ⭐️
2.5 🌶️
Tropes
💜 Small-Town Romance
💜 Military Hero
💜 Second Chance
💜 Forced Proximity
💜 Single Parent
Welcome back to Rockville, Maine, where the lobsters are fresh, the people are friendly and the Young family fellas are oh so very hot. The next installment in the Alpha Cove series by Susan Stoker has finally dropped. The Pilot is the story of ex-fighter pilot Lincoln “Linc” Young and his journey of finally finding his peace. I always recommend reading a series in order, and with this one, I strongly recommend it. Each brother has a book, and the first two play a big part in the next so please read, they are amazing.
Linc is a survivor, has been all his life. After his father’s death he and his brothers return to their hometown to help their mother during the aftermath. The small town of Rockville is mostly the same, but what he didn't expect was to run into his childhood bully. The woman who once made him feel small, who bullied him and made his life hell. Harper Bates. The same woman who is now stirring a different kind of emotion in him, one he doesn’t know what to do with. Linc has grown close to Harper’s son, Kash over the last year, he seems much of himself in the young boy. When he gets a late night call from Kash, asking him for help, he does the unthinkable and offers a helping hand to the small family.
Harper Bates has hit the place below rock-bottom, she’s returned to Rockville and to the one place she swore she would never would, her fathers house. The father that judges her for everything she does, and everything she doesn’t. She’s barely getting by, working as much as she can to get both Kash and herself out of her fathers house. Harper wants nothing more than for Kash to be happy and healthy, to have a childhood and enjoy being a kid. On a very bad night, a call from Kash to the one person she never expected, Harper finds herself and her son moving in with none other than Linc Young. The now man she bullied all those years ago. Linc gives her and Kash a safe place to live, encourages Kash in his passions and they slowly settle into a normal that Harper grows all too used to. Harper and Linc’s relationship changes quickly from roommate to romance, and together they slowly start to open up to one another more.
The Pilot was such a good read. As Linc slowly starts to open up to Harper, he shares more about his PTSD, insomnia and nightmares. In return, Harper shares about her time in the city, and Kash’s father. This is remarkably hard for both of them, and has Linc fighting his inner instincts when Harper shares more of her story, but together they are able to fight their demons back and find the sunshine on the other side. There is much to this story, and I really have to give it to the author for a killer plot. Linc needed Kash, Kash needed Linc, and Harper needed them both. Together they were able to heal past wounds, and even open a new path to Harper’s father. The Young family is amazing with their capacity to forgive and love, and seeing the family together in the end really made the story feel so warm.
The Pilot is a story filled with lovable small-town moments, family, romance, suspense, second chances and spice. I can’t wait for the last Young brother, I’m waiting for it.
4.5 ⭐️
2.5 🌶️
Tropes
💜 Small-Town Romance
💜 Military Hero
💜 Second Chance
💜 Forced Proximity
💜 Single Parent
August 5, 2026
4.25stars-THE PILOT is the third instalment in Susan Stoker’s contemporary, adult ALPHA COVER erotic, romance series focusing on the Young brothers: Linc, Zach, Chad and Knox (all former members of the US armed forces) in Lobster Cover, Maine.. This is forty year old, former US Air Force fighter pilot Lincoln ‘Linc’ Young, and thirty-eight year old, single mother Harper Bates’ story line. THE PILOT can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story lines is revealed where necessary
NOTE: Due to the nature of the story line premise, there WILL BE triggers for more sensitive readers.
Told from three omniscient third person perspectives ( Linc, Harper, Kash) THE PILOT follows in the wake of Harper Bates’ return to her home town of Lobster Cove. Having left home at eighteen to make it big in New York, Harper returned twenty years later with her proverbial tail tucked between her legs, and a twelve year old son with no father in the picture. A broken and struggling relationship with her father found Harper living in her car, when former US Air Force pilot Lincoln Young made Harper an offer she could not refuse. Lincoln Young has been struggling since his last mission went all to h*ll. Having recovered, and not on permanent leave, Linc has decided to settle in Lobster Cove, where he will come face to face with his childhood nemesis, the girl turn woman who bullied the younger version of our story line hero. Living together brought Linc and Harper closer together but all is not well in Lobster Cove, and Harper’s son Kash is about to become the victim of a devious mind.
The world building focuses on the past as Linc has yet to come to terms with what happened in the past, and Harper struggles with a life she never wanted for herself or her son. As Lincoln Young’s extended family continues to grown, Harper looks at her own, realizing she had no support and has always been on her own.
The relationship between Harper and Linc is one of former enemies for friends to lovers. Harper was a bully in her teenaged years, and her target is the man with whom she will fall in love but Karma is about to come full circle, and Harper watches as someone she loves is targeted by the same type of people she once was. Becoming one another’s support system, Linc and Harper must work together to take down the people targeting the people they love. The $ex scenes are limited but passionate and intense.
There is a large ensemble cast of colorful, familiar and sometimes questionable secondary and supporting characters including the return of Linc’s siblings, their significant others and their mother Evelyn. We are introduced to Harper’s son Kash, and her father Victor Rogers. The requisite evil has many faces.
THE PILOT is a story of secret and lies, betrayal and vengeance, bullies and heart break, family and friendships, forgiveness and love. The slow building premise is emotional, dramatic and edgy; the romance is captivating; the characters are desperate, determined and charismatic.
Copy supplied for review
NOTE: Due to the nature of the story line premise, there WILL BE triggers for more sensitive readers.
Told from three omniscient third person perspectives ( Linc, Harper, Kash) THE PILOT follows in the wake of Harper Bates’ return to her home town of Lobster Cove. Having left home at eighteen to make it big in New York, Harper returned twenty years later with her proverbial tail tucked between her legs, and a twelve year old son with no father in the picture. A broken and struggling relationship with her father found Harper living in her car, when former US Air Force pilot Lincoln Young made Harper an offer she could not refuse. Lincoln Young has been struggling since his last mission went all to h*ll. Having recovered, and not on permanent leave, Linc has decided to settle in Lobster Cove, where he will come face to face with his childhood nemesis, the girl turn woman who bullied the younger version of our story line hero. Living together brought Linc and Harper closer together but all is not well in Lobster Cove, and Harper’s son Kash is about to become the victim of a devious mind.
The world building focuses on the past as Linc has yet to come to terms with what happened in the past, and Harper struggles with a life she never wanted for herself or her son. As Lincoln Young’s extended family continues to grown, Harper looks at her own, realizing she had no support and has always been on her own.
The relationship between Harper and Linc is one of former enemies for friends to lovers. Harper was a bully in her teenaged years, and her target is the man with whom she will fall in love but Karma is about to come full circle, and Harper watches as someone she loves is targeted by the same type of people she once was. Becoming one another’s support system, Linc and Harper must work together to take down the people targeting the people they love. The $ex scenes are limited but passionate and intense.
There is a large ensemble cast of colorful, familiar and sometimes questionable secondary and supporting characters including the return of Linc’s siblings, their significant others and their mother Evelyn. We are introduced to Harper’s son Kash, and her father Victor Rogers. The requisite evil has many faces.
THE PILOT is a story of secret and lies, betrayal and vengeance, bullies and heart break, family and friendships, forgiveness and love. The slow building premise is emotional, dramatic and edgy; the romance is captivating; the characters are desperate, determined and charismatic.
Copy supplied for review
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you to Montlake and NetGalley for the ARC of The Pilot by Susan Stoker in exchange for an honest review.
The Pilot blends small-town romance with a touch of suspense and follows Harper Bates, a single mom returning to her hometown after years of trying to build a life for herself and her young son, Kash. Coming home also means facing someone from her past: Linc Young, a medically retired Air Force pilot and the man she bullied mercilessly in high school. When circumstances lead Harper and Kash to temporarily move in with Linc, the forced proximity makes it impossible to avoid the past. Old wounds, guilt, and complicated feelings quickly rise to the surface.
What stood out most to me in this book was the character work. Harper isn’t written as a perfect heroine, and I appreciated that honesty. She knows she treated Linc terribly in the past, and much of her emotional journey centers around confronting that guilt and trying to become a better person for both herself and her son.
Linc is also a compelling character. As a medically retired Air Force pilot dealing with PTSD and insomnia, he carries his own trauma while still showing patience, kindness, and quiet strength. Watching him slowly let Harper back into his life was one of the more emotional aspects of the story.
Kash, Harper’s son, ended up being one of my favorite parts of the book. His growing relationship with Linc adds a lot of warmth to the story, and some of their interactions were genuinely sweet. The small-town setting and the found-family dynamic also help create a comforting sense of community around the characters.
The writing style is easy to get into and keeps the story moving. The dialogue feels natural, and the chemistry between Harper and Linc develops throughout the book. The open-door scenes are well written and fit naturally within the emotional tone of the story.
My main critique would be the pacing of the romance. Because Harper and Linc have such a complicated history, I would have loved to see a slightly slower build to their relationship. A little more time spent developing their emotional connection early on would have made some of the bigger emotional moments land even stronger.
Overall, this was an enjoyable small-town romance with suspense elements and strong emotional themes of forgiveness, healing, and second chances.
Readers who enjoy the following tropes will likely enjoy this book:
small-town romance
forced proximity
single parent
found family
second chance / redemption arc
protective hero
military hero
This book would be especially enjoyable for readers who like emotional contemporary romance with strong character growth, small-town settings, and a mix of heartfelt family moments and romantic tension.
Rating: 4/5
Spice level: 2.5/5 (open-door scenes)
The Pilot blends small-town romance with a touch of suspense and follows Harper Bates, a single mom returning to her hometown after years of trying to build a life for herself and her young son, Kash. Coming home also means facing someone from her past: Linc Young, a medically retired Air Force pilot and the man she bullied mercilessly in high school. When circumstances lead Harper and Kash to temporarily move in with Linc, the forced proximity makes it impossible to avoid the past. Old wounds, guilt, and complicated feelings quickly rise to the surface.
What stood out most to me in this book was the character work. Harper isn’t written as a perfect heroine, and I appreciated that honesty. She knows she treated Linc terribly in the past, and much of her emotional journey centers around confronting that guilt and trying to become a better person for both herself and her son.
Linc is also a compelling character. As a medically retired Air Force pilot dealing with PTSD and insomnia, he carries his own trauma while still showing patience, kindness, and quiet strength. Watching him slowly let Harper back into his life was one of the more emotional aspects of the story.
Kash, Harper’s son, ended up being one of my favorite parts of the book. His growing relationship with Linc adds a lot of warmth to the story, and some of their interactions were genuinely sweet. The small-town setting and the found-family dynamic also help create a comforting sense of community around the characters.
The writing style is easy to get into and keeps the story moving. The dialogue feels natural, and the chemistry between Harper and Linc develops throughout the book. The open-door scenes are well written and fit naturally within the emotional tone of the story.
My main critique would be the pacing of the romance. Because Harper and Linc have such a complicated history, I would have loved to see a slightly slower build to their relationship. A little more time spent developing their emotional connection early on would have made some of the bigger emotional moments land even stronger.
Overall, this was an enjoyable small-town romance with suspense elements and strong emotional themes of forgiveness, healing, and second chances.
Readers who enjoy the following tropes will likely enjoy this book:
small-town romance
forced proximity
single parent
found family
second chance / redemption arc
protective hero
military hero
This book would be especially enjoyable for readers who like emotional contemporary romance with strong character growth, small-town settings, and a mix of heartfelt family moments and romantic tension.
Rating: 4/5
Spice level: 2.5/5 (open-door scenes)
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Review of advanced copy received from NetGalley
3.5 ⭐️
The Pilot is the third instalment in the Alpha Cove series and follows the story of the oldest Young brother - Linc and his high school bully - Harper. Following retirement from his career as a fighter pilot and the death of his father, Linc moves back to his hometown to set down roots and help his brothers care for their mother. Harper’s son, Kash, becomes a constant presence in Linc’s life and the pair form a connection that eventually leads to Linc asking Harper and Kash to move in with him in order to give them some much needed help in their journey to regain their independence. The past two decades have shaped Harper and Linc into people that are very different from their high school selves, this new found proximity allowing for their romantic relationship to develop.
I would definitely recommend not skipping on the previous books as there is plenty of background and emotional development that is relevant. I will say they all seem to follow a similar pattern and the brothers know what they want and they go for it without hesitation. There is a somewhat traditional feel about the Young family and the roles they each take on, but they do also push for breaking through those barriers when necessary. I found Susan’s writing style to be pretty unique and it took me some getting used to, the book being written in third person dual POV.
There is plenty of trauma unpacked in this book, from teenage bullying, to sexual abuse, traumatising military experiences and the PTSD that followed so check your trigger warnings as well. I found that whilst these were represented sensibly, a few things were glanced over quickly or maybe just the writing style didn’t lend itself to doing these experiences justice. The reality of day to day life was represented well, making this book have a more realistic feel, and the intimate scenes were tasteful and complemented the story.
One thing that didn’t click for me was Kash’s way of speaking and thinking at times. He is represented as a teenager way beyond his years in terms of reasoning, empathy and maturity, but at times I felt that his dialogue/internal monologue was one of an adult and a bit stiff, I didn’t get the feeling of him being a teenager almost at all.
I am finding it difficult to settle on a rating for this book as I connected with the story and the characters and I am looking forward to completing it, but at the same time I feel like something isn’t allowing me to be fully invested emotionally. I do recommend giving the series a read and finding out for yourselves !
✈️ Small Town Romance
🦞 Military Hero
✈️ Second Chance
🦞 Forced Proximity
✈️ Single Parent
🦞 Healing and Redemption
✈️ Found Family
Thank you NetGalley and Montlake for this advanced copy!
3.5 ⭐️
The Pilot is the third instalment in the Alpha Cove series and follows the story of the oldest Young brother - Linc and his high school bully - Harper. Following retirement from his career as a fighter pilot and the death of his father, Linc moves back to his hometown to set down roots and help his brothers care for their mother. Harper’s son, Kash, becomes a constant presence in Linc’s life and the pair form a connection that eventually leads to Linc asking Harper and Kash to move in with him in order to give them some much needed help in their journey to regain their independence. The past two decades have shaped Harper and Linc into people that are very different from their high school selves, this new found proximity allowing for their romantic relationship to develop.
I would definitely recommend not skipping on the previous books as there is plenty of background and emotional development that is relevant. I will say they all seem to follow a similar pattern and the brothers know what they want and they go for it without hesitation. There is a somewhat traditional feel about the Young family and the roles they each take on, but they do also push for breaking through those barriers when necessary. I found Susan’s writing style to be pretty unique and it took me some getting used to, the book being written in third person dual POV.
There is plenty of trauma unpacked in this book, from teenage bullying, to sexual abuse, traumatising military experiences and the PTSD that followed so check your trigger warnings as well. I found that whilst these were represented sensibly, a few things were glanced over quickly or maybe just the writing style didn’t lend itself to doing these experiences justice. The reality of day to day life was represented well, making this book have a more realistic feel, and the intimate scenes were tasteful and complemented the story.
One thing that didn’t click for me was Kash’s way of speaking and thinking at times. He is represented as a teenager way beyond his years in terms of reasoning, empathy and maturity, but at times I felt that his dialogue/internal monologue was one of an adult and a bit stiff, I didn’t get the feeling of him being a teenager almost at all.
I am finding it difficult to settle on a rating for this book as I connected with the story and the characters and I am looking forward to completing it, but at the same time I feel like something isn’t allowing me to be fully invested emotionally. I do recommend giving the series a read and finding out for yourselves !
✈️ Small Town Romance
🦞 Military Hero
✈️ Second Chance
🦞 Forced Proximity
✈️ Single Parent
🦞 Healing and Redemption
✈️ Found Family
Thank you NetGalley and Montlake for this advanced copy!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 30, 2026
The Pilot is the second book in Susan Stoker's Alpha Cover series, and it's the second book in the series I've read, the previous novel was The Sail0r, so I expected another super suspenseful romantic suspense novel, but the suspense in this novel was a little less exciting that of The Sailor, which is why I'm giving this novel 4 stars.
The two main characters in this novel are Linc, a medically discharged military pilot with a serious case of FTSD, after his plane crashed in North Korea, and his desperate attempt to evade capture and get to safety. The woman who comes into his life is his former grade school mean-girl bully, ex-neighbor, and down-on-her-luck, single mother, Harper, whose 12-year-old son, Kash is smart, savvy, caring, protective and intellectually way advanced for his years.
After high school, Harper left her home in Maine for New York to become a fashion model, and more than a decade later, ended up living in her car with her son. Begging to return home to Maine, her father's house was her last straw, except that her father has found nothing but fault in his daughter her entire life, and she's soon forced to leave her father's home too. She ends up living in a house that Linc is restoring, and that's when things get really interesting.
At this point I should mention the triggers, and there are plenty of them: gang rape (off-screen), sexual situations (on-screen), bullying (past and present), PTSD, insomnia, and child abduction.
As Harper and Linc share his home, the attraction between the former tormentor and her former target grows, as does Linc's affection for Harper's son, Kash, who, being the new kid in town, and more into science and astronomy than sports, soon becomes a target to also be bullied.
I loved the character building in this novel, which also includes all of Linc's family members, who also take Harper and Kash under their wings. I highly suggest reading this series in the order it was written, because characters and situations from the previous two novels are called into play in this one. Most of the novel centers around these relationships, and this reader kept waiting for the suspense part to kick in.
Eventually the suspenseful part of this romantic suspense novel happens, but unfortunately, it doesn't come close to the hair-raising suspense of the previous novel. Nevertheless, this was still a very good read, with strong characters, who've faced their own demons and come out ahead, a homey, small town feel, and a story that kept this reader reading until the wee hours of the morning.
I voluntarily read an advance reader copy of this novel. The opinions expressed are my own.
The two main characters in this novel are Linc, a medically discharged military pilot with a serious case of FTSD, after his plane crashed in North Korea, and his desperate attempt to evade capture and get to safety. The woman who comes into his life is his former grade school mean-girl bully, ex-neighbor, and down-on-her-luck, single mother, Harper, whose 12-year-old son, Kash is smart, savvy, caring, protective and intellectually way advanced for his years.
After high school, Harper left her home in Maine for New York to become a fashion model, and more than a decade later, ended up living in her car with her son. Begging to return home to Maine, her father's house was her last straw, except that her father has found nothing but fault in his daughter her entire life, and she's soon forced to leave her father's home too. She ends up living in a house that Linc is restoring, and that's when things get really interesting.
At this point I should mention the triggers, and there are plenty of them: gang rape (off-screen), sexual situations (on-screen), bullying (past and present), PTSD, insomnia, and child abduction.
As Harper and Linc share his home, the attraction between the former tormentor and her former target grows, as does Linc's affection for Harper's son, Kash, who, being the new kid in town, and more into science and astronomy than sports, soon becomes a target to also be bullied.
I loved the character building in this novel, which also includes all of Linc's family members, who also take Harper and Kash under their wings. I highly suggest reading this series in the order it was written, because characters and situations from the previous two novels are called into play in this one. Most of the novel centers around these relationships, and this reader kept waiting for the suspense part to kick in.
Eventually the suspenseful part of this romantic suspense novel happens, but unfortunately, it doesn't come close to the hair-raising suspense of the previous novel. Nevertheless, this was still a very good read, with strong characters, who've faced their own demons and come out ahead, a homey, small town feel, and a story that kept this reader reading until the wee hours of the morning.
I voluntarily read an advance reader copy of this novel. The opinions expressed are my own.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you Susan Stoker and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this ARC.
This is book 3 in the Alpha Cover series, an emotional small-town romance that shows the power of forgiveness and has a protect her at all cost vibe.
Lincoln "Linc" Young is an ex-fighter pilot that has returned home to Rockville, Maine, in the aftermath of his father's death, and to support his mama in grief. His outward presence gives off a calm, in charge, I have it all together
vibe. However, internally he has torturous PTSD, doesn't sleep and nightmares that won't let go from his military experiences.
In a crazy turn, he runs into Harper Bates, the girl that was his high-school mean girl bully. She made his life a living hell during those years. Harper has now hit rock bottom and left NYC to protect her tween son, Kash from the darkness of living homeless. She moves back home to a curmudgeon father, and it isn't a healthy situation for her and Kash to live in her childhood home. Lincoln, who has formed a bond with Kash, and sees the need for the two of them to find other housing options offers for them to come live with him. He offers them safety, and a way to start saving money, as they work on his run down home. The forced proximity quickly heals their past, and feelings take hold despite their history. They help each other with past trauma, and find comfort together. They must navigate a threat to Kash, bonding them in emotional healing and growth.
I have not read books 1-2 at the time of this review, but they are moving up on my TBR. This is an emotional redemption story, done extremely well. The main female character is not perfect, but has grown and learned from her time as a high school bully. The full circle, bully representation is dealt with in grace, growth, and forgiveness.
Kash, the 12 year old son of Harper is an amazing kid, brilliant, and funny. I hope a second generation story will be available in the future.
This book reminded me why I love Susan Stoker books. Years ago I read every book published and then had a season I didn't read. I'm so glad I have reconnected and now have books catch up on in her writing catalog.
Tropes:
Enemies - Roommates -Lovers
Ex Military Romance
Single Mom
Romantic Suspense
Protect her and her son
This is book 3 in the Alpha Cover series, an emotional small-town romance that shows the power of forgiveness and has a protect her at all cost vibe.
Lincoln "Linc" Young is an ex-fighter pilot that has returned home to Rockville, Maine, in the aftermath of his father's death, and to support his mama in grief. His outward presence gives off a calm, in charge, I have it all together
vibe. However, internally he has torturous PTSD, doesn't sleep and nightmares that won't let go from his military experiences.
In a crazy turn, he runs into Harper Bates, the girl that was his high-school mean girl bully. She made his life a living hell during those years. Harper has now hit rock bottom and left NYC to protect her tween son, Kash from the darkness of living homeless. She moves back home to a curmudgeon father, and it isn't a healthy situation for her and Kash to live in her childhood home. Lincoln, who has formed a bond with Kash, and sees the need for the two of them to find other housing options offers for them to come live with him. He offers them safety, and a way to start saving money, as they work on his run down home. The forced proximity quickly heals their past, and feelings take hold despite their history. They help each other with past trauma, and find comfort together. They must navigate a threat to Kash, bonding them in emotional healing and growth.
I have not read books 1-2 at the time of this review, but they are moving up on my TBR. This is an emotional redemption story, done extremely well. The main female character is not perfect, but has grown and learned from her time as a high school bully. The full circle, bully representation is dealt with in grace, growth, and forgiveness.
Kash, the 12 year old son of Harper is an amazing kid, brilliant, and funny. I hope a second generation story will be available in the future.
This book reminded me why I love Susan Stoker books. Years ago I read every book published and then had a season I didn't read. I'm so glad I have reconnected and now have books catch up on in her writing catalog.
Tropes:
Enemies - Roommates -Lovers
Ex Military Romance
Single Mom
Romantic Suspense
Protect her and her son
August 5, 2026
Susan Stoker delivers another heartfelt, emotionally rich romantic suspense with The Pilot, a story that proves healing often comes from the most unexpected places. Blending second chances, redemption, and protective romance with genuine emotional depth, this novel offers much more than a love story—it explores forgiveness, growth, and breaking cycles that have lasted for years.
Lincoln "Linc" Young immediately won me over. Beneath his calm, dependable exterior is a man carrying invisible scars from both combat and his childhood. His PTSD is handled with compassion and realism, never becoming his entire identity but instead adding another layer to an already admirable hero. Linc's quiet strength, unwavering patience, and protective nature make him incredibly easy to root for.
Harper's journey is equally compelling. Rather than brushing aside her past mistakes, the story forces her to confront them head-on. Watching her acknowledge the harm she'd caused as a teenager while trying to become a better mother and person made her redemption feel authentic. Her growth never feels rushed, and that's what makes it satisfying.
One of my favorite parts of the novel was Kash. His storyline surrounding bullying adds an emotional weight that hits close to home and mirrors the mistakes and lessons of the previous generation. His relationship with Linc is absolutely heartwarming, creating many of the book's sweetest moments.
The romance develops naturally through forced proximity and shared vulnerability. Their relationship isn't built on instant forgiveness but on earning trust, understanding each other's pain, and choosing compassion. The chemistry simmers beneath every interaction while the emotional connection steadily grows stronger.
As expected from Susan Stoker, the suspense element raises the stakes at exactly the right time. It never overshadows the romance but instead reinforces the fierce protectiveness that makes her heroes so memorable.
The Pilot is ultimately a story about redemption, forgiveness, family, and discovering that our past doesn't have to define our future. With lovable characters, emotional healing, tender romance, and enough suspense to keep the pages turning, this is another satisfying addition to Susan Stoker's catalog.
I received an advance copy and am sharing my honest thoughts.
Lincoln "Linc" Young immediately won me over. Beneath his calm, dependable exterior is a man carrying invisible scars from both combat and his childhood. His PTSD is handled with compassion and realism, never becoming his entire identity but instead adding another layer to an already admirable hero. Linc's quiet strength, unwavering patience, and protective nature make him incredibly easy to root for.
Harper's journey is equally compelling. Rather than brushing aside her past mistakes, the story forces her to confront them head-on. Watching her acknowledge the harm she'd caused as a teenager while trying to become a better mother and person made her redemption feel authentic. Her growth never feels rushed, and that's what makes it satisfying.
One of my favorite parts of the novel was Kash. His storyline surrounding bullying adds an emotional weight that hits close to home and mirrors the mistakes and lessons of the previous generation. His relationship with Linc is absolutely heartwarming, creating many of the book's sweetest moments.
The romance develops naturally through forced proximity and shared vulnerability. Their relationship isn't built on instant forgiveness but on earning trust, understanding each other's pain, and choosing compassion. The chemistry simmers beneath every interaction while the emotional connection steadily grows stronger.
As expected from Susan Stoker, the suspense element raises the stakes at exactly the right time. It never overshadows the romance but instead reinforces the fierce protectiveness that makes her heroes so memorable.
The Pilot is ultimately a story about redemption, forgiveness, family, and discovering that our past doesn't have to define our future. With lovable characters, emotional healing, tender romance, and enough suspense to keep the pages turning, this is another satisfying addition to Susan Stoker's catalog.
I received an advance copy and am sharing my honest thoughts.
August 17, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley for this amazing book! 🗺️⁀જ✈︎ x 👩👦
This was an amazing listen! At first I was like, "Oh I will just listen to one chapter and go to the other book I am also reading" and before I knew it, I was 30% in and losing sleep over it! So it's a gripping story and the writing was right up my alley. That being said, it was fairly... Just okay. It wasn't a story I am going to reread or rush to get the other books in this series by any means.
Linc was the PICTURE of the dad who stepped up (and they have a pun like this in the book, so it was so funny to listen to that!), he took Cash under his wing even before him, and Harper even liked each other in the slightest and saw himself so deeply in that little boy he became his rock and the one person (excluding his mom of course) that didnt tell him to change in any way shape or form. Especially his chapters - with the voice acting went HARD! I don't know what they gave that dude that did the voicing, but good for him because it was like this was a scene right in front of you and it landed perfectly.
Harper went through some serious hardship throughout the book! I mean, Linc had a whole other can of worms with his military trauma and PTSD, but she was assaulted and left on the side of the road while she was chasing her dreams in a city that was kicking her out on every turn. Also on that, I liked how it didn't go too preachy on the fact that she kept Cash even though he was a product of her assault (because some authors lean into that for some reason and it's so... weird? Sends the wrong message? I mean she says it herself that FOR HER it was the choice to make but doesn't do the whole "because this is human life to be saved" bit)
- Also, we have RANDOMLY Cash's point of view near the end? We time skip a little to the robotics competition, and she is dead ass kidnapped along with the bullies / previous bully herself ex girlfriend and dumped on an island near where they leave full of vacation homes? 1. Yeah it was random as all hell, but Cashes pov was so gay coded I can forgive that (because what do you mean you are spooning with this girl for three days straight and you feel nothing?)
Honestly, PLEASE make a gay sequel with Cash that would be a 10/10!
This was an amazing listen! At first I was like, "Oh I will just listen to one chapter and go to the other book I am also reading" and before I knew it, I was 30% in and losing sleep over it! So it's a gripping story and the writing was right up my alley. That being said, it was fairly... Just okay. It wasn't a story I am going to reread or rush to get the other books in this series by any means.
Linc was the PICTURE of the dad who stepped up (and they have a pun like this in the book, so it was so funny to listen to that!), he took Cash under his wing even before him, and Harper even liked each other in the slightest and saw himself so deeply in that little boy he became his rock and the one person (excluding his mom of course) that didnt tell him to change in any way shape or form. Especially his chapters - with the voice acting went HARD! I don't know what they gave that dude that did the voicing, but good for him because it was like this was a scene right in front of you and it landed perfectly.
Harper went through some serious hardship throughout the book! I mean, Linc had a whole other can of worms with his military trauma and PTSD, but she was assaulted and left on the side of the road while she was chasing her dreams in a city that was kicking her out on every turn. Also on that, I liked how it didn't go too preachy on the fact that she kept Cash even though he was a product of her assault (because some authors lean into that for some reason and it's so... weird? Sends the wrong message? I mean she says it herself that FOR HER it was the choice to make but doesn't do the whole "because this is human life to be saved" bit)
- Also, we have RANDOMLY Cash's point of view near the end? We time skip a little to the robotics competition, and she is dead ass kidnapped along with the bullies / previous bully herself ex girlfriend and dumped on an island near where they leave full of vacation homes? 1. Yeah it was random as all hell, but Cashes pov was so gay coded I can forgive that (because what do you mean you are spooning with this girl for three days straight and you feel nothing?)
Honestly, PLEASE make a gay sequel with Cash that would be a 10/10!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 6, 2026
Let me preface this by saying that Bully Romance is noy my usual sub-genre but I was interested to see how SHE being the former bully was going to be handled.
Lincoln has grown from gangly, nerdy teenager into a former fighter pilot who only left the military due to injury and the death of his father. But the man is still a nerd. He has PTSD/Insomnia and stress bakes! Harper has grown a lot since high school. The former bully now knows how hard life can be, how vulnerable you can be in an instant. The former model wannabe now just wants somewhere safe for her and her adorable son to stay - somewhere that's not with her crotchety father.
Kash is sweet, sensitive and a nerd and pushes all Linc's protective buttons. He was that kid 30 years ago and he knows how cruel the world can be. So if he can give the kid a place to crash for a few months while his mom saves some cash for their own place, he'll give him it. He may even be able to help the kid deal with his own bullies. He is such a mini protector, always putting his mum first.
There are a lot of bug themes dealt with in this story, over and above the bullying; homelessness, unsafe refuges, predatory behaviour, S/A. I thought that all these strands were handles carefully and with empathy. I knew Harper would have a hill to climb with Linc and he dealt with the entire situation with grace, common sense and all without coming across as predatory or vengeful.
Kash was already a part of the family and I love the way Linc, his brothers, their partners and especially his mum just accepts him and Harper into their lives. They are all aware of her history with Linc but they are willing to out aside their beliefs on the topic as that is what Linc wants. He was the injured party so he gets to say who he accepts into his life.
There is COMMUNICATION through out the book, occasionally they may be at odds, or take umbrage at things but it's never the thing that drives them apart (in fact there is no 3rd act break up). The protector part of the romance is established well but I did find the twist of who was in danger wonderfully well handled and I did have a bit of an ohno moment!
The revelations of Linc and Harper's back story are heart-breaking and those with sensitivities may want to research content warning further,
This series works better if you read them in order, as some of the storylines flow between the books but you could read it as a standalone.
Lincoln has grown from gangly, nerdy teenager into a former fighter pilot who only left the military due to injury and the death of his father. But the man is still a nerd. He has PTSD/Insomnia and stress bakes! Harper has grown a lot since high school. The former bully now knows how hard life can be, how vulnerable you can be in an instant. The former model wannabe now just wants somewhere safe for her and her adorable son to stay - somewhere that's not with her crotchety father.
Kash is sweet, sensitive and a nerd and pushes all Linc's protective buttons. He was that kid 30 years ago and he knows how cruel the world can be. So if he can give the kid a place to crash for a few months while his mom saves some cash for their own place, he'll give him it. He may even be able to help the kid deal with his own bullies. He is such a mini protector, always putting his mum first.
There are a lot of bug themes dealt with in this story, over and above the bullying; homelessness, unsafe refuges, predatory behaviour, S/A. I thought that all these strands were handles carefully and with empathy. I knew Harper would have a hill to climb with Linc and he dealt with the entire situation with grace, common sense and all without coming across as predatory or vengeful.
Kash was already a part of the family and I love the way Linc, his brothers, their partners and especially his mum just accepts him and Harper into their lives. They are all aware of her history with Linc but they are willing to out aside their beliefs on the topic as that is what Linc wants. He was the injured party so he gets to say who he accepts into his life.
There is COMMUNICATION through out the book, occasionally they may be at odds, or take umbrage at things but it's never the thing that drives them apart (in fact there is no 3rd act break up). The protector part of the romance is established well but I did find the twist of who was in danger wonderfully well handled and I did have a bit of an ohno moment!
The revelations of Linc and Harper's back story are heart-breaking and those with sensitivities may want to research content warning further,
This series works better if you read them in order, as some of the storylines flow between the books but you could read it as a standalone.
August 13, 2026
⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4 Stars
The Pilot was my first book by Susan Stoker, and even though it's the third book in the Alpha Cove series, I had no trouble jumping straight in.
I wasn't sure how I was going to feel about the romance at first. Harper had bullied Linc in high school, so this definitely wasn't your typical second-chance romance. But Susan Stoker did a wonderful job showing how much both characters had grown and how they were carrying wounds from their past.
Lincoln was such an easy hero to fall for. Beneath his calm, capable exterior, he's dealing with PTSD from his time as a fighter pilot, yet he never hesitates to help Harper and her son, Kash, when they need it most. The way he stepped up for Kash absolutely melted my heart. Their relationship developed so naturally, and some of my favourite moments in the book were watching Linc become the safe, dependable adult Kash needed.
I also really enjoyed Harper's character. She isn't perfect, and she knows the mistakes she's made. Watching her face her past while trying to build a better future for her son made her feel genuine and relatable.
The romance between Linc and Harper was full of emotional healing, trust and forgiveness. They quickly became each other's safe place, seeing beyond the masks they both wore, and I loved watching their relationship grow.
I listened to the audiobook, which features dual POV narration for most of the story before introducing a third point of view near the end. I thought this added an extra layer of suspense without taking away from the romance.
The narration by Andi Arndt and Jeremy York was fantastic. They really brought the story and the characters to life for me, making it easy to become completely immersed in the emotional journey.
I've really enjoyed getting to know the Young family throughout this story, and it's made me want to go back and read the earlier books in the series. This is an amazing, heartfelt and emotional journey filled with healing, forgiveness, family and finding a place where you truly belong.
Overall, The Pilot was a wonderful audiobook, and I'll definitely be picking up more from both Susan Stoker and the Alpha Cove series.
The Pilot was my first book by Susan Stoker, and even though it's the third book in the Alpha Cove series, I had no trouble jumping straight in.
I wasn't sure how I was going to feel about the romance at first. Harper had bullied Linc in high school, so this definitely wasn't your typical second-chance romance. But Susan Stoker did a wonderful job showing how much both characters had grown and how they were carrying wounds from their past.
Lincoln was such an easy hero to fall for. Beneath his calm, capable exterior, he's dealing with PTSD from his time as a fighter pilot, yet he never hesitates to help Harper and her son, Kash, when they need it most. The way he stepped up for Kash absolutely melted my heart. Their relationship developed so naturally, and some of my favourite moments in the book were watching Linc become the safe, dependable adult Kash needed.
I also really enjoyed Harper's character. She isn't perfect, and she knows the mistakes she's made. Watching her face her past while trying to build a better future for her son made her feel genuine and relatable.
The romance between Linc and Harper was full of emotional healing, trust and forgiveness. They quickly became each other's safe place, seeing beyond the masks they both wore, and I loved watching their relationship grow.
I listened to the audiobook, which features dual POV narration for most of the story before introducing a third point of view near the end. I thought this added an extra layer of suspense without taking away from the romance.
The narration by Andi Arndt and Jeremy York was fantastic. They really brought the story and the characters to life for me, making it easy to become completely immersed in the emotional journey.
I've really enjoyed getting to know the Young family throughout this story, and it's made me want to go back and read the earlier books in the series. This is an amazing, heartfelt and emotional journey filled with healing, forgiveness, family and finding a place where you truly belong.
Overall, The Pilot was a wonderful audiobook, and I'll definitely be picking up more from both Susan Stoker and the Alpha Cove series.
October 10, 2026
The Pilot by Susan Stoker
Alpha Cove #3
~ Survival, whether behind enemy lines or while being bullied in high school, isn’t easy – coming through such difficulties can leave physical and mental scars and change one’s life ~
What I liked:
* Lincoln Young: medically discharged fighter pilot, eldest of four brothers, working on house remodel, shot down behind enemy lines and survived, has PTSD & insomnia, renovating home he purchased on the waterfront, considered a hero, benefits from taking in Harper & Kash
* Harper Bates: loving single mother of 12-year-old son, spent time living in her car-homeless, protective, hard worker, honest, positive, had goals that took her to NY but returned to Alpha Cove for her son’s sake
* Kash: Harper’s brilliant son, interested in space and robotics, bullied at school, protective, caring, wise, finally able to relax a bit and enjoy life after his mother finds a safe harbor for the two of them
* The small-town vibe and close fraternal & familial bonds
* The impact the twenty years after high school had on both Harper and Lincoln, their mature communication skills, and being able to see the commonalities they had that drew them together
* That Harper and Lincoln were better together than apart and what they each brought to the relationship
* That Harper and Lincoln were on the same page about the future they wanted
* The way Kash handled the situation he found himself in on the island
* That it was easy to read though I missed book two in the series
* That it was quick easy predictable read with the expected happily ever after with a hook at the end to indicate Zach’s story is next
* That Alpha Cove could extend to more than the Young brother’s if the author wanted to write more stories based in this setting
What I didn’t like:
* Who and what I was meant not to like
* Thinking about what makes bullies do what they do, the difficulties Lincoln endured behind enemy lines, the way Kash was conceived, and whether or not I would be able to survive if stranded
Did I like this book? Yes
Would I read more by this author? Yes
Thank you to NetGalley and Montlake for the ARC – This is my honest review
4 Stars
Alpha Cove #3
~ Survival, whether behind enemy lines or while being bullied in high school, isn’t easy – coming through such difficulties can leave physical and mental scars and change one’s life ~
What I liked:
* Lincoln Young: medically discharged fighter pilot, eldest of four brothers, working on house remodel, shot down behind enemy lines and survived, has PTSD & insomnia, renovating home he purchased on the waterfront, considered a hero, benefits from taking in Harper & Kash
* Harper Bates: loving single mother of 12-year-old son, spent time living in her car-homeless, protective, hard worker, honest, positive, had goals that took her to NY but returned to Alpha Cove for her son’s sake
* Kash: Harper’s brilliant son, interested in space and robotics, bullied at school, protective, caring, wise, finally able to relax a bit and enjoy life after his mother finds a safe harbor for the two of them
* The small-town vibe and close fraternal & familial bonds
* The impact the twenty years after high school had on both Harper and Lincoln, their mature communication skills, and being able to see the commonalities they had that drew them together
* That Harper and Lincoln were better together than apart and what they each brought to the relationship
* That Harper and Lincoln were on the same page about the future they wanted
* The way Kash handled the situation he found himself in on the island
* That it was easy to read though I missed book two in the series
* That it was quick easy predictable read with the expected happily ever after with a hook at the end to indicate Zach’s story is next
* That Alpha Cove could extend to more than the Young brother’s if the author wanted to write more stories based in this setting
What I didn’t like:
* Who and what I was meant not to like
* Thinking about what makes bullies do what they do, the difficulties Lincoln endured behind enemy lines, the way Kash was conceived, and whether or not I would be able to survive if stranded
Did I like this book? Yes
Would I read more by this author? Yes
Thank you to NetGalley and Montlake for the ARC – This is my honest review
4 Stars
August 14, 2026
Life is unexpected
I loved, loved this romance with its beautiful balance of love, real life issues, forgiveness, fun banter, spice, healing, suspense, and danger. I was feeling some big, big feels with this one with all the past pain and present day healing between Harper and Linc. I am always a fan of uber protective alpha males being paired with smart brave and capable females who need loving more than they need rescuing. This story does that perfectly especially with traumatic topics. Linc is a former Air Force pilot who moves home to Lobster Cove, his family home and business compound in small town Rockville, ME, after the sudden death of his father and his medical discharge. He bought a large home and spends his time fixing it up. Harper is a single mom to 12 yo Kash. She grew up in Rockville but lived in NYC trying to become a model until recently when she moved back in with her father, who lives next door to Lobster Cove. Harper was one of the pack of mean girl bullies who tormented Linc in school because he was small and nerdy. When living with her dad continues to cause issues for Harper and Kash, Linc invites them to live in his house. To get to their HEA, Linc and Harper will just need to deal with their joint past and unpack their own traumatic baggage. I loved Kash’s character in this book as well as in the previous books in this series. He was such a wonderful and integral addition to this story rather than a flimsy story prop. The story would not have been as rich and well rounded without the full development and inclusion of his character. Susan Stoker always manages to make a romance so much deeper than spicy spice, swoons and danger and she got us there with captivating dialogue, three dimensional characters who grow, big feels, and an engaging storyline. I cannot wait to hear what happens for the remaining Young brother. 4.5 stars.
I loved, loved this romance with its beautiful balance of love, real life issues, forgiveness, fun banter, spice, healing, suspense, and danger. I was feeling some big, big feels with this one with all the past pain and present day healing between Harper and Linc. I am always a fan of uber protective alpha males being paired with smart brave and capable females who need loving more than they need rescuing. This story does that perfectly especially with traumatic topics. Linc is a former Air Force pilot who moves home to Lobster Cove, his family home and business compound in small town Rockville, ME, after the sudden death of his father and his medical discharge. He bought a large home and spends his time fixing it up. Harper is a single mom to 12 yo Kash. She grew up in Rockville but lived in NYC trying to become a model until recently when she moved back in with her father, who lives next door to Lobster Cove. Harper was one of the pack of mean girl bullies who tormented Linc in school because he was small and nerdy. When living with her dad continues to cause issues for Harper and Kash, Linc invites them to live in his house. To get to their HEA, Linc and Harper will just need to deal with their joint past and unpack their own traumatic baggage. I loved Kash’s character in this book as well as in the previous books in this series. He was such a wonderful and integral addition to this story rather than a flimsy story prop. The story would not have been as rich and well rounded without the full development and inclusion of his character. Susan Stoker always manages to make a romance so much deeper than spicy spice, swoons and danger and she got us there with captivating dialogue, three dimensional characters who grow, big feels, and an engaging storyline. I cannot wait to hear what happens for the remaining Young brother. 4.5 stars.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
i believe that this is a well deserved 5 star book and just genuinely the most wholesome book ever so if any of the following sounds appealing to you or if you just enjoy cute romance books with a side of suspense then this is for you!!!
oh my gosh this book was literally the most immaculate thing i’ve ever read, it was so wholesome and just overall adorable. and lincoln like holy that man is genuinely such a gentleman and everything you could ever ask want from a guy.
honestly this book wasn’t what i thought it was going to be, i haven’t read the other books in the series (i definitely will be now) so i didnt know what i was really getting into besides from all i found out in the description but it was amazing. it’s written in third person which isnt what i usually go for but nevertheless it was spectacular, it added to the plot to be honest and aided the progression of the book making it feel more elevated.
the plot however!! couldnt have seen it coming, i was just reading in bed all cozy and that and then holy i was stressing for a hot minute. the plot twist was wholely crazy but like sort of nice at the same time, it really showed how people can change and be better which was a really nice message towards the end of the book.
and linc and harper (the main characters) were just so considerate towards eachother, i think from all the books ive read they have got to be in top ten couples. both of them put in equal effort and although they took time getting into the real relationship they just like did it for eachother which is just absolutely adorable. also the representation of trauma and hardships in life was explored in sensitive ways which made the book all the more meaningful and really pulled you in to empathise with the characters.
id also like to thank net galley and susan stoker for the opportunity to read an ARC copy of this :)
oh my gosh this book was literally the most immaculate thing i’ve ever read, it was so wholesome and just overall adorable. and lincoln like holy that man is genuinely such a gentleman and everything you could ever ask want from a guy.
honestly this book wasn’t what i thought it was going to be, i haven’t read the other books in the series (i definitely will be now) so i didnt know what i was really getting into besides from all i found out in the description but it was amazing. it’s written in third person which isnt what i usually go for but nevertheless it was spectacular, it added to the plot to be honest and aided the progression of the book making it feel more elevated.
the plot however!! couldnt have seen it coming, i was just reading in bed all cozy and that and then holy i was stressing for a hot minute. the plot twist was wholely crazy but like sort of nice at the same time, it really showed how people can change and be better which was a really nice message towards the end of the book.
and linc and harper (the main characters) were just so considerate towards eachother, i think from all the books ive read they have got to be in top ten couples. both of them put in equal effort and although they took time getting into the real relationship they just like did it for eachother which is just absolutely adorable. also the representation of trauma and hardships in life was explored in sensitive ways which made the book all the more meaningful and really pulled you in to empathise with the characters.
id also like to thank net galley and susan stoker for the opportunity to read an ARC copy of this :)
August 3, 2026
🎧
Linc & Harper
Air Force fighter pilot vs. struggling single mom. Her son Cash is a teen with a bum of a father so he grew up being close with his mother and protecting her. These two have a not so positive past where she used to be his bully back in their childhood but once they grew up karma got to her and he ended up the town hero.
They start off as roommates due to unfortunate situation and then turn lovers. We find out later that she stood up for her son and that’s what drove them to have to sleep in their car. Insert the handsome former fighter pilot to save the day.
As we go through the book their sweet moments are so honest and tender, I absolutely loved it. The lingering gazes, the slow burn, and the simple hip/chest touches leave you excited for this couple inevitable HEA.
Our FMC has a traumatizing past that ended his military career. We go through the nightmares that keep him up at night and moments of PTSD that leave him paralyzed. Insert this hardworking and beautiful single mother. With her in his arms at night, he no longer has insomnia.
I loved getting to watch these two fall in love despite each of their traumatic pasts. They fell in love in such an open and honest way that it made you want nothing but to root for their HEA.
I’m so obsessed with their open and honest conversations about their relationship. It’s refreshing that the spice in a book is more than just sex but is truly about these two showing each other their love for the other. 🌶️🌶️
I loved the ending and the challenges that this couple went through because it was a smidge of dramatic but also somewhat more believable than some dumb third act breakup.
This is my first book by this author and I absolutely LOVED IT!! I love forward to more by this author!
Thank you NetGalley for this eARC!!!
Linc & Harper
Air Force fighter pilot vs. struggling single mom. Her son Cash is a teen with a bum of a father so he grew up being close with his mother and protecting her. These two have a not so positive past where she used to be his bully back in their childhood but once they grew up karma got to her and he ended up the town hero.
They start off as roommates due to unfortunate situation and then turn lovers. We find out later that she stood up for her son and that’s what drove them to have to sleep in their car. Insert the handsome former fighter pilot to save the day.
As we go through the book their sweet moments are so honest and tender, I absolutely loved it. The lingering gazes, the slow burn, and the simple hip/chest touches leave you excited for this couple inevitable HEA.
Our FMC has a traumatizing past that ended his military career. We go through the nightmares that keep him up at night and moments of PTSD that leave him paralyzed. Insert this hardworking and beautiful single mother. With her in his arms at night, he no longer has insomnia.
I loved getting to watch these two fall in love despite each of their traumatic pasts. They fell in love in such an open and honest way that it made you want nothing but to root for their HEA.
I’m so obsessed with their open and honest conversations about their relationship. It’s refreshing that the spice in a book is more than just sex but is truly about these two showing each other their love for the other. 🌶️🌶️
I loved the ending and the challenges that this couple went through because it was a smidge of dramatic but also somewhat more believable than some dumb third act breakup.
This is my first book by this author and I absolutely LOVED IT!! I love forward to more by this author!
Thank you NetGalley for this eARC!!!
August 9, 2026
I would definitely recommend reading these books in order for the best experience. That said, if you did decide to start with this book, I don't think you would have any problem following the story. The author gives some background on Harper's father and touches on situations that occurred in previous books. There isn't a lot of detail, but there's just enough to make a new reader aware of what happened without feeling lost.
I liked that we got both Linc's and Harper's point of view on their past experiences in school. I especially liked that Harper fully realized just how awful her behavior had been. What she went through afterward was horrible, and I could understand her being glad that she didn't remember the majority of it. I did have to wonder whether it was naivety or arrogance that caused her to ignore the advice she was given—or maybe a little of both.
The part of Linc's experience that he had been holding on to turned out to be not nearly as bad as I thought it would be. I felt really bad for him carrying that guilt over one aspect of what happened when the overall experience itself was already so daunting.
I really enjoyed the fact that both Linc and Harper were basically good people who were able to acknowledge past behaviors, look beyond them, and move forward together.
I thought Kash was a real standout character in this book. With everything he was going through, he still managed to stand on business and overcome the obstacles that had been placed in his way. I also appreciated the lessons learned on all sides, and I was definitely satisfied with what happened to the bad guy.
This book was not at all what I was expecting, but I found it to be a very enjoyable read. I listened to the audiobook and didn't care much for the narration, but the story itself was engaging enough that the narration didn't keep me from enjoying it.
I liked that we got both Linc's and Harper's point of view on their past experiences in school. I especially liked that Harper fully realized just how awful her behavior had been. What she went through afterward was horrible, and I could understand her being glad that she didn't remember the majority of it. I did have to wonder whether it was naivety or arrogance that caused her to ignore the advice she was given—or maybe a little of both.
The part of Linc's experience that he had been holding on to turned out to be not nearly as bad as I thought it would be. I felt really bad for him carrying that guilt over one aspect of what happened when the overall experience itself was already so daunting.
I really enjoyed the fact that both Linc and Harper were basically good people who were able to acknowledge past behaviors, look beyond them, and move forward together.
I thought Kash was a real standout character in this book. With everything he was going through, he still managed to stand on business and overcome the obstacles that had been placed in his way. I also appreciated the lessons learned on all sides, and I was definitely satisfied with what happened to the bad guy.
This book was not at all what I was expecting, but I found it to be a very enjoyable read. I listened to the audiobook and didn't care much for the narration, but the story itself was engaging enough that the narration didn't keep me from enjoying it.
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